The Publisher of Path-Way Newspaper, Mr. Victor Ucheka, has called on the Federal Government and state governments across Nigeria to urgently fast-track the establishment and implementation of state policing as a strategic solution to the worsening security challenges confronting the nation.
Speaking in a statement made available to journalists in Asaba, Delta State, Ucheka expressed deep concern over the rising cases of kidnapping, armed robbery, banditry, terrorism, communal clashes, and other criminal activities that have continued to threaten the lives and livelihoods of Nigerians.
According to him, the current security architecture has become overstretched due to the country’s growing population and increasing security demands, making it difficult for the centralized policing system to effectively respond to incidents across all parts of the nation. He emphasized that state policing would provide a more localized and efficient approach to crime prevention and management.
Ucheka noted that insecurity has become a major source of fear and uncertainty among citizens, with many Nigerians now reluctant to travel by road or visit certain regions of the country due to concerns about their safety. He lamented that the persistent security challenges are not only affecting social activities but are also discouraging investment, slowing economic growth, and undermining national development.
“The security of lives and property remains the primary responsibility of government. Unfortunately, the increasing rate of criminal activities across the country indicates the need for urgent reforms in our security framework. State policing offers an opportunity to strengthen security operations by bringing law enforcement closer to the people,” he stated.
He further explained that state police officers, being familiar with the terrain, culture, language, and peculiar security challenges of their communities, would be better positioned to gather credible intelligence and respond swiftly to threats before they escalate. According to him, community-based policing has proven successful in many countries and could significantly improve security outcomes in Nigeria.
The media entrepreneur stressed that effective intelligence gathering remains one of the most critical tools in combating crime, adding that local security personnel are more likely to receive timely information from residents who trust and identify with them.
Ucheka also called on lawmakers at both the federal and state levels to work collaboratively towards putting in place the necessary legal and constitutional frameworks required for the successful implementation of state policing. He urged political leaders to set aside partisan interests and prioritize the safety and well-being of Nigerians.
While acknowledging concerns about the possible abuse of state police by political actors, he maintained that appropriate checks, balances, and oversight mechanisms can be established to prevent misuse and ensure professionalism and accountability within the system.
He therefore appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, state governors, members of the National Assembly, and other stakeholders to demonstrate the political will needed to actualize state policing without further delay.
Ucheka concluded by emphasizing that the establishment of state police would not only complement the efforts of existing federal security agencies but would also help restore public confidence, improve law enforcement efficiency, and create a safer environment for citizens and businesses across the country.
“The time has come for Nigeria to embrace a security structure that reflects its realities and addresses its peculiar challenges. Implementing state police is no longer an option but a necessity if we must effectively tackle insecurity and guarantee the safety of all Nigerians,” he said.
